Is a job in energy a wise choice? This is a challenging topic that should include a variety of aspects, such as individual interests and talents, the best-paying energy professions presently on the market, the need for oil and gas occupations, and alternatives for “green” energy vocations.
The planet needs energy. It requires energy for transportation, lighting, electronics, appliances, medical equipment, and many other contemporary amenities.
The world also needs experts who can succeed in employment in the energy sector. It requires individuals who are aware of the fundamental concepts behind energy, including how to transform raw material into the movement of an automobile, heat for a home, or electricity for a school.
Energy Careers: An Overview
You have a wide range of industry options, which makes choosing a degree interesting, engaging, and (sometimes) daunting. Like all other industries, the energy industry has its advantages and disadvantages, but overall, you’ll discover that this is one of the most lucrative and promising career paths you can choose. Not only does this profession pay well, but if you choose the proper field, you may also access the greatest paid positions in the energy industry and have a tremendous career progression. It is emphasized that another option is to get into a profession with weak prospects for advancement; positions in the nuclear industry and other areas of the energy industry, for several reasons, seem to be on the decrease.
Is producing oil and gas a worthwhile career choice? Is the energy source of the future solar, wind, or both? Which energy positions are the best? Is a job in energy a wise choice? How many jobs are there in the energy sector? When choosing an online program, you should consider all of these questions.
Politicians and the general public support renewable energy sources like wind and solar, resulting in some of the highest-paid employees in the energy industry. However, the areas of gas, coal, and petroleum all exhibit potential and may provide tremendous pay to the proper individuals.
Pros & Cons of Careers in Energy
Quite a fact, the benefits and drawbacks of energy careers vary depending on the field you choose. For instance, the oil sector offers several advantages, such as high salaries for various jobs and a stable infrastructure that keeps the sector alive. But will it keep going? While the usage of fossil fuels will undoubtedly continue for some time to come, there may be a drop, particularly when equipment and vehicles consume fewer resources to do the same task. (The result is the ability to drive a vehicle, heat a home, etc.) Is oil and gas production a good career path? This is a question that some people could ponder. But it has benefits in any case.
Another example of the finest occupation in energy is wind energy. For many areas of the nation, particularly the middle ones like the Midwestern states, this renewable energy source may be the way of the future. But how long will it continue, and might solar, hydropower, or other “green” energy sources replace it? One drawback is the degree to which different energy sources are unknown.
Ironically, the reality that humans will need some energy remains constant. You may rest easy knowing there will be work if you comprehend the fundamentals of efficiently gathering, conserving, distributing, and using energy.
Typical Education for Energy Jobs
How many jobs are there in the energy sector? Considering the many kinds of energy occupations that are now accessible, thousands, if not millions.
Energy careers need a broad range of specialists to perform several responsibilities. There are various positions. Thus, educations need to be just as diversified. There are many roles, from lower-level technicians making sure that equipment runs smoothly to upper-level executives setting long-term objectives for private energy corporations to scientists experimenting on the next generation of energy.
Engineering
Fundamentally, engineering uses math and science to address issues in the real world. Although vehicles, computers, and mobile devices are often associated with engineers, they also design smaller physical structures like bridges and towers. Engineers are required for occupations in the energy sector to design new machinery, develop effective ways to store energy and develop innovative means to transport energy (such as electricity) from one place to another.
Information Technology
Energy occupations need individuals with training in computers, networks, software, and information technologies, much like all other sectors in the twenty-first century. The sector will need brand-new software and technology. Thus, networking and IT professionals will be essential.
Sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics, etc.)
Numerous scientific areas are relevant to careers in the energy sector. Chemistry is among the most visible since it allows for the creation of stronger and lighter materials and improved procedures. Biology, physics, and many other disciplines are also used to improve the energy industry.
Mathematics
Numerous mathematical subjects, including algebra, geometry, and calculus, will be utilized in energy-related employment. Mathematics-trained individuals may be employed to improve energy efficiency and will also be required to guarantee the financial viability of energy corporations and public works projects.
Management & Business
At all levels of the business, managers and leaders will be required since the energy sector will employ many people. People with business, management, and leadership degrees will have some of the greatest roles in the energy sector, from entry-level managers supervising small teams to high-level executives.
#1 Most Lucrative Job in Energy
Information Systems Manager
Median Salary: $146,360
Education: Bachelor’s
Experience: 5 or more years
Growth: 10%
A profession as an information systems manager is more closely related to software and technology than energy efficiency and conservation. But if we’re going to cut our energy use and be more environmentally conscious, we need the correct data and technology to make it happen. As a result, individuals from the ICT industry will be required alongside energy engineers and other energy specialists.
Information systems managers maintain computer networks and systems. They may install software, maintain security, or enhance databases as part of their duties, but as a manager, they often supervise technology specialists. The compensation for these energy-related occupations is fantastic, but you’ll need a tonne of expertise to get this job. However, if you climb the corporate ladder and into the top 10%, you may anticipate incomes exceeding $208,000 per year, making this one of the finest energy careers.
Sponsored Pick: Champlain College’s Bachelor of Science in Computer and Information Systems
#1 Most Lucrative Job in Renewable Energy
Aerospace Engineer
Median Salary: $116,500
Education: Bachelor’s
Experience: None
Growth: 3%
Most aerospace engineers will work directly on planes, satellites, and spacecraft. However, as interest in wind energy increases, more highly skilled individuals will be required to improve designs for turbines and other systems. These specialists are essential for the energy business since they comprehend the foundations of wind resistance, force, efficiency, and other concepts.
Certainly one of the highest-paid positions in the energy sector. Professionals working in these renewable energy fields make an average salary of $116,500 per year, with the top 10% earning over $166,500. You’ll need a bachelor’s degree in chemistry, physics, advanced mathematics, computer programming, and more if you want to work in these green fields.
Sponsored Pick: American Public University System’s Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Science
Best Paying Jobs in Energy
#1 Architectural Manager
Median Salary: $144,830
Education: Bachelor’s
Experience: 5 or more years
Growth: 3%
Architectural engineers contribute to waste reduction by designing buildings that use fewer resources and energy, which is why producing energy-efficient structures is becoming more vital. They oversee several tasks that may not involve energy (training personnel, for instance), but they also formulate thorough plans, direct research, and assess technical correctness, all of which may be directed toward lowering energy use.
Managers can expect to earn a median salary of $144,830 annually, making it one of the highest-paying positions in the energy sector. The top 10% of earners in this field may do even better, with yearly salaries exceeding $208,000. Like most managerial positions, these wonderful occupations in energy need at least five years of experience, but once you have that expertise, you can enjoy them.
Favorite Pick: Academy of Art University’s Bachelor of Architecture
#2 Petroleum Engineer
Median Salary: $137,720
Education: Bachelor’s
Experience: None
Growth: 3%
Is producing oil and gas a worthwhile career choice? Despite the diversity of viewpoints, it is undeniable that this is one of the highest-paid positions in the energy sector. It comes with a terrific income and the opportunity to work in a field that supports some of the world’s most significant industrial applications and automobiles. Even though the world is shifting toward occupations in renewable energy, petroleum engineers still have many work opportunities, particularly if they have a master’s degree.
The average pay for these oil and gas positions is $137,720, while the top 10% of earners can expect to make over $208,000 annually. You will be in charge of developing oil extraction machinery, drilling new oil fields, analyzing production techniques, and coming up with fresh, safer, and more effective solutions to meet global energy needs.
The University of Southern California’s Master of Science in Petroleum Engineering is popular.
#3 Chemical Engineer
Median Salary: $108,770
Education: Bachelor’s
Experience: None
Growth: 4%
Chemical engineers use the fundamental ideas of chemistry, biology, arithmetic, and physics to address challenges with various everyday items, such as gasoline. Chemical engineers are often at the forefront of energy progress, from large-scale production to testing new techniques. The positions might be classified as oil and gas employment, or they can apply to renewable energy.
One of the most desirable energy careers, the top 10% of earners in this field make over $176,090 annually. Even though it presents many difficult issues and obstacles, this is still one of the most intriguing jobs.
The Illinois Institute of Technology’s Master of Chemical Engineering is popular.
#4 Atmospheric Scientist
Median Salary: $95,380
Education: Bachelor’s
Experience: None
Growth: 6%
The wind energy sector requires a broad range of specialists, including atmospheric scientists, who can advise on the most effective locations and methods for capturing wind energy. This is one of the greatest green careers since atmospheric scientists thoroughly understand the weather and can develop forecasts that improve wind energy.
These energy occupations provide amazing income and excellent growth, and the top 10% of earners may anticipate annual wages of over $147,000. When you work as an atmospheric scientist, you also have the option to put your expertise to use in one of the best renewable energy careers.
#5 Materials Engineer
Median Salary: $93,360
Education: Bachelor’s
Experience: None
Growth: 2%
Materials engineers carry out numerous tasks to improve goods. They thoroughly grasp metals, ceramics, polymers, and other materials and are engaged in everything from microscopic computer components to substantial infrastructural materials. Several engineers develop novel materials to make cars lighter and more fuel-efficient. Others could contribute to developing new home glass that will aid in improving heat retention. A materials engineer may do almost anything related to energy consumption.
To become a materials engineer, you require a science-related degree, which covers chemistry, computer programming, mathematics, and more. Thanks to all of these factors, you will succeed in this field, and the top 10% of earners may anticipate incomes of over $148,000 with the aid of a master’s degree.
The Columbia University in the City of New York’s Master of Science in Materials Science & Engineering is a popular choice.
#6 Environmental Engineer
Median Salary: $88,860
Education: Bachelor’s
Experience: None
Growth: 3%
These experts work in a range of fascinating fields, including the efficient extraction and use of energy. They work on various responsibilities, from planning projects to keeping track of environmental advancements, to help build a safer and cleaner future for the nation and the whole globe.
This vocation is crucial to many facets of environmental health and energy consumption since it involves recycling, waste disposal, public health, and sustainability. If you want to work in one of the most significant fields in renewable energy, this is one of the highest-paying green careers.
Frequently chosen: Raleigh’s North Carolina State University’s Master of Environmental Engineering
#7 Power Plant Operator, Distributor, & Dispatcher
Median Salary: $85,950
Education: HS Diploma
Experience: None
Growth: -16%
Is a job in energy a wise choice? It would seem that the answer is “yes” if you looked at the Salary for these energy positions.
When managed correctly, nuclear power may be a dependable and secure way to provide electricity to cities and other institutions all over the globe. Nuclear power is still a significant component of the energy industry. We need operators, distributors, and dispatchers to guarantee the secure usage of nuclear energy.
These people may make a good living with only a high school certificate and the necessary training. Although prior experience is not necessary for this position, there will be a lot of testing and on-the-job training. The top 10% of workers in this industry can anticipate salaries of over $117,000, but there will be a significant decline due to an increase in power generation from a single plant (one plant can produce enough power, so less staff is needed) and smart-grid technology, which may eliminate distributor jobs.
#8 Nuclear Technician
Median Salary: $82,080
Education: Associate’s
Experience: None
Growth: -19%
Nuclear technicians are trained to use specialized equipment and monitor radiation levels to ensure a safe working environment while producing electricity. This is one of the most important energy professions since they detect radiation, test air, water, and soil samples, monitor equipment performance, and carry out many other tasks to increase nuclear energy.
You require at least an associate’s degree in nuclear science or a closely related discipline to work as a nuclear technician. Although many professionals have expertise from the U.S. Navy, which uses nuclear energy for various reasons, education often comes from a technical institution. Although this profession may pay well, it will also become less profitable due to rising efficiency and evolving technology.
Popular selection: Lakeshore Technical College’s associate of applied science in nuclear technology
#9 Agricultural Engineer
Median Salary: $80,720
Education: Bachelor’s
Experience: None
Growth: 2%
Even if you would not consider that agriculture and energy are two distinct subjects, the development of biofuels makes it plausible to claim that an agricultural engineer is also employed in the energy sector. The overarching objective of this profession is to produce more with less. This entails dealing with equipment, buildings, power sources, and environmental concerns to get the greatest outcomes.
Advanced training is sometimes needed for these energy occupations since they frequently include computer software, testing methods, management techniques, and more. Calculus, physics, and chemistry are the three subjects that most engineers take, although business, public administration, and economics courses are also beneficial.
North Carolina State University in Raleigh’s Master of Biological and Agricultural Engineering is popular.
